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A.J. High

Pilot for four Texas airlines

Captain A.J. High's career spans from Mercury airlines to Trans-Texas Airways to Texas International to Continental Airlines.

Born in Cleburne, Texas in 1923, High took his first airplane ride from a couple of barnstormers in 1938. He then taught himself to fly. He soloed at night on December 1, 1941 flying a J-3 Piper Cub.

On January 28, 1942 he became a cadet at Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio. He received his military wings on November 10, 1942.

On March 19, 1946, he began his career as an airline pilot flying for Mercury Airlines. He was hired for the new Trans-Texas Airways in 1947. From 1967 to 1971, High served as Vice President of Trans-Texas / Texas International, then returned to piloting. In 1982, the airline merged with Continental Airlines. His last flight as captain was on April 7, 1983, the day before he turned 60 when the FAA required retirement. Captain High then became a private corporate pilot for 10 years.

Captain High served the Museum as a director from the beginning of the organization. In 2012, he was elected chairman of the board and CEO.

He was also a volunteer docent and a part of the history of the 1940 Air Terminal Museum.

In Memoriam - Captain AJ High

We are deeply saddened to inform you of the death of the Chairman of the Board and CEO of the 1940 Air Terminal Museum, Captain AJ High. He was our leader, mentor and friend. In an organization led and run by volunteers, he showed us what true volunteerism is. AJ was among the founders of our nonprofit, and he was one of our longest serving directors. He inspired us with his unwavering belief in our mission, and by his refusal to walk away from a fight. AJ was a gentleman of the old school. When faced with difficulties, he declined the easy way out, preferring instead to do the right thing, even when it cost him. He believed in his fellow volunteers as a team and as individuals, and he supported this organization and our efforts with his time, his talents and his treasure. We will miss him terribly.